Five Day Excursion to South Cotabato and Sarangani: Itinerary, Guide, and Travel Expenses

Ever since I have read an article from a famous travel blogger about his trip to Lake Sebu, I had been telling my friends about it and asked them to go with me. I could have risked going solo, but I hesitated every time I try to book that trip. It is Southern Mindanao after all, hearing bad news every day on the television about the region and officemates telling me stories about how they know someone having a bad experience traveling there, you couldn’t really blame someone who has lived at Metro Manila for so long to not be in doubt with their safety when in Mindanao. I knew I just had to have someone accompany me on my first trip to this part of the country. Luckily, I was able to convince a good friend to go, and like me, she got excited when I showed her pictures of Lake Sebu and Enchanted River (which we also visited on the first part of our trip. I knew then that finally, this trip will push through.

A Checklist of Things To Do in Lake Sebu

Now emerging as one of top eco-cultural tourist spots in Mindanao, Lake Sebu is bound to surprise you with experiences that will combine nature, culture and adrenalin rush in one go. This vibrant municipality of South Cotabato is blessed with natural wonders that will surely keep travelers busy for a day or two. These activities are some of my recommended items that you need to keep in mind when visiting this part of the country.

Rain, rain did not go away and came back again on my second day around Lake Sebu

The Seven Falls of Lake Sebu, South Cotabato

South Cotabato has proven to be one of Mindanao's best kept secrets that is now aggressively gaining popularity. After our adventure at Lake Holon at T'boli, we were headed for Lake Sebu to see more of what the province has to offer. The mountain town of Lake Sebu, also famous for its three lakes: Lake Sebu, Lake Seloton and Lake Lahit, is also home to the indigenous T'boli community . Aside from that, it also boasts of various natural treasures: lush forests and plantations, placid lakes, rivers and waterfalls that will surely prove to be worthwhile to visit.

One of the seven waterfalls of Lake Sebu, this lovely sight will greet you after a refreshing zipline ride

Celebrating T'boli Hospitality by Music, Dance and a Homestay Experience

I have always been curious and interested with the different ethnic tribes that reside in the Philippines, that's why I was very excited on going to South Cotabato because this means I would finally be able to meet one of the most colorful indigenous communities in Mindanao best known for their intricate weaving and bead works, the T'boli tribe.

the colorful T'boli scarf mostly worn during dance performances

Hiking Mt. Melibingoy/Mt. Parker and Smiles from T'boli locals of Sitio Nabol, South Cotabato

We woke up early in preparation of our trek up to Lake Holon, one of T'boli's prized tourist destination. I originally saw it featured at Pinay Travel Junkie's page and so we really meant to visit the place before heading to Lake Sebu. It was said that Lake Holon is Philippines' cleanest lake and seeing images of the pristine lake from those blogs, I couldn't resist to grab the chance to see its beauty with my own eyes!

traditional T'boli house - notice some differences to the nipa hut?